Common Types of Pumps
Pumps operate on basic hydraulic principles but are designed differently to suit various applications.
Here are some common types used in the Central Valley for agricultural and domestic purposes:
Deep Set Vertical Hollow Shaft Turbines
These high-capacity pumps, often used for agricultural irrigation in the Central Valley, can move large volumes of water. They consist of an electric motor at the surface, which connects to a vertical shaft extending hundreds or even thousands of feet deep. The column assembly varies in its components and section lengths depending on if the system is water or oil lubricated, but all systems end with a turbine bowl that provides the water flow.
Short Coupled Vertical Hollow Shaft Turbines
Similar to their deep-set counterparts but designed for shallower settings, these pumps usually have 1 to 2 stages and shorter column assemblies.
They are commonly used in agricultural holding ponds, weirs, and ditches, earning them the nickname “Ditch Pump.”
Submersibles
Submersible pumps have motors located below the water level, at the bottom of the pump. They are supported by a water pipe that also transmits water to the surface, with a special cable running from the motor to surface electrical components.
Jet/Booster Pumps
Typically used to increase system pressure rather than lift water from wells, these pumps are ideal for applications requiring specific pressures, such as sprinkler irrigation systems and domestic water supplies.
Prop Pumps
Instead of having an impeller design such as is found in other turbine pumps, prop pumps rely on a propeller shape similar to what you would see on a boat to move water through the bowls.
This allows them to deal with more debris without getting damaged or clogged up.
Other Pumps
The variety of pumps is extensive, including sump pumps, transfer pumps, and various centrifugal pumps like split case pumps. Contact us for help with any pump needs!
Pump Power Sources
Pumps convert rotational energy into hydraulic energy to move water efficiently. This requires a power source to generate that rotational energy. Here are some common ways to power water well systems:
Electrical
The most common power source for water well pumps today is electricity from the grid. We work with Southern California Edison and Pacific Gas & Electric to supply customers with the necessary power. While overhead lines were once standard, deeper water sources and higher power needs have led to the use of underground lines and ground-mounted transformers. Advanced pump controllers like soft starts and variable frequency drives are now used to reduce stress on the grid and lower power costs.
Engines
When wind power proved unreliable or insufficient, engines became a popular choice for powering water pumps. Initially running on diesel, and later on natural gas and propane, engine-driven systems offered reliability and significant power.
Although not as common today, many pumps still use engine drives, especially in remote locations where modern electrical services are impractical. We continue to service engine-driven pumps annually.
Wind Power
Traditional windmills that directly powered water pumps are nearly extinct. While wind power is making a comeback, it’s not in the same way it was once used for water wells.
These windmills, now relics of a bygone era, can still be seen around the valley and even in front of our main office, but they have been largely replaced by more reliable power sources.
Variable Frequency Drives
In the past, starting a water well pump was as simple as flipping a switch. However, with deeper water tables, increased power needs, and advancements in technology, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) have become essential. These devices house small, powerful computers that control the startup, operation, and shutdown of pumping systems.
VFDs can adjust the pump’s speed to reduce energy consumption, saving money and reducing strain on the grid during peak times. Even domestic systems benefit from the efficiency and control offered by VFDs.